Thomas A. Dingman, Deborah Kaufman Goldfine, and Walter H. Morris Jr. have been chosen to receive the 2026 Harvard Medal for their exceptional service to Harvard University. This honor, first given in 1981, acknowledges outstanding contributions in areas such as leadership, fundraising, and teaching. Alumni and former staff affiliated with the University are eligible for the award, which will be presented on Harvard Alumni Day, June 5.
Dingman, known for his compassion and energy, has been a key figure at Harvard for 45 years, significantly impacting the undergraduate experience. As the dean of freshmen for 13 years, he focused on fostering a sense of belonging among first-year students. He introduced enduring traditions like Convocation and the Reflecting on Your Life program. Dingman has held various roles, including assistant director in the admissions office and resident dean. He continues to advise first-year students and remains active with the Harvard Alumni Association.
Kaufman Goldfine has been a steadfast supporter of Harvard athletics and student engagement for decades. A former captain of the women’s tennis team, she has been instrumental in alumni engagement and fundraising as the executive chair of the Harvard Radcliffe Foundation for Women’s Athletics. She led the 50th Anniversary Celebration of Harvard Women’s Tennis, raising over $1 million. Her work has earned her multiple awards, including the Hiram Hunn Award and the John P. Reardon Jr. Alumni Award.
Walter H. Morris Jr. has played a significant role in enhancing alumni engagement and promoting lifelong learning within the Harvard community. As HAA president from 2008 to 2009, he expanded Shared Interest Groups and launched the first Global Networking Night. Morris has been involved with the HAA since 1995 and has served on various committees. A retired principal at Ernst & Young LLP, Morris is active in the Harvard Black Alumni Society and other alumni organizations.
Nominations for the 2027 Harvard Medal must be submitted by June 30, 2026. Late submissions will be considered for the next year.
Original Source: news.harvard.edu
